What is the Renters’ Rights Act?
After the Renters’ Rights Bill received Royal Assent and became the Renters’ Right Act in October 2025, the Government has now confirmed that Phase 1, which includes the introduction of periodic tenancies, a ban on rental bidding and Section 13 rent reviews, will be effective from 1 May 2026.
Phase 2, which includes the landlord database of property compliance and a new ombudsman will follow from late 2026. Finally, Phase 3 will introduce the Decent Homes Standard at a date yet to be confirmed by the Government.
Watch as Gareth Atkins (Managing Director - Lettings) and Fran Giltinan (Managing Director - Property Management) run through the main parts to note and discuss how we’ve prepared.
Read on to learn more about the Renters' Rights Act. Click here to skip ahead to how Foxtons can help.
What are the key reforms of the Renters’ Rights Act?
Phase 1
Periodic tenancies
Summary: Fixed-term tenancies will be abolished and will be replaced by rolling periodic contracts, so tenants can give two months’ notice at any time.
Foxtons support: We will update your tenancy agreements and our terms of business, and help manage your tenancies with flexibility and control. You and your tenant can rely on the legality of our agreements.
Phase 2
Property portal
Summary: Landlords must register properties on a government database to demonstrate compliance and use certain possession grounds. The government has advised that further details on registration procedures and enforcement will follow.
Foxtons Support: We assist landlords with registration, maintain accurate records, and ensure eligibility for legal protections.
Phase 3
Decent homes standard
Summary: Private rentals must meet minimum safety and habitability standards, aligning with social housing. Under Awaab’s Law, landlords are now subject to stricter guidelines on speed to respond and speed to resolve health-related hazards, such as damp and mould. This includes investigating and acting on emergency hazards within 24 hours, and completing safety work within tight timeframes.
Foxtons Support: Our property management team conducts inspections, coordinates repairs, and ensures full compliance with Awaab’s Law, protecting both tenant wellbeing and landlord interests. With stricter timelines now in place for responding to and resolving health-related hazards, our maintenance management process plays a vital role in helping landlords stay on top of issues. It provides real-time visibility, ensuring nothing is missed and all actions are taken within the required legal timeframes.
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Why choose Foxtons for landlord services?
Our landlord management services
Whether you've got an extensive portfolio or one property, choosing the right letting agent to manage your investment is an important decision. At Foxtons, we're committed to providing our clients with the best possible service. Relentlessly pursuing perfection, we're constantly striving to secure our clients the best rental prices and premium management services.
Landlord Rent Protection & Legal Expenses Service
Our Rent Protection service offers extra reassurance by helping safeguard your rental income and providing legal support when you need it.
Your costs and expenses of:
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Testimonials
“We had to comply with HMO regulations which involved major alterations to our property. Foxton’s were very supportive through the whole process. We would personally like to thank our property manager Toral Brahmbhatt for her patience and understanding and for all the help she has given us”
Una T.
“We let our property via Daniela Gomes in a very short space of time. Daniela supported us throughout the process (which involved applying for an HMO licence) and answered our calls & emails at all times (including Bank holiday weekends/after hours). Daniela is extremely professional and helpful. The level of service she provided was well above and beyond my expectations. ”
Vicki C.
“I just want to say thank you to Laura Orr, (Legal & Compliance Administrator) for helping me sort out the licence for my flat. Laura dealt with the whole process so efficiently and effortlessly and kept me updated throughout. I appreciate your help with this Laura.”
John S.
Frequently asked questions
